But if you can't make it Ireland, the Ottawa Irish Festival has many events planned to bring out the Irish in you this week. This year, D is for Dinner decided to forgo the pitcher of green beer and consume beer the way any self-respecting Irishman or woman would -- in a pie. Mat Desjardins is the chef to Irish Ambassador Ray Bassett. He shared his recipe for Beef and Guiness Pie.

4. Pour in Guinness and beef stock. Stir well and reduce heat. Put lid on pot and allow to simmer quietly for an hour, until beef is tender and juices reduced.

5. Allow a generous sprinkle of flour on the table when you're rolling out the pastry. Ensure the circles are slightly wider than the bowl you'll be cooking them in, so that pastry falls over the sides.

6. Place pie mixture into oven-proof bowls and layer the circle of pastry on top, patting down to seal the edges. Brush well with beaten egg, pierce a small hole to allow steam to escape, and pop in the 350 degree pre-heated oven for about fifteen to twenty minutes, until the pastry lid is golden brown. Remove and serve.